Mesh Analysis for Circuit: Finding ix with Supermesh

[J.live]

Homework Statement

About this circuit:

http://oi54.tinypic.com/eqwktd.jpg

If I were to find ix. Would I be using supermesh?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[tedbradly]

No. You would just write three loop equations with three unknowns. Mesh analysis wants voltages, and that is a dependent voltage source that relies on a current. You traditionally need to use supermesh when you need to work around a current source (either dependent or independent).

 

[J.live]

In the last mesh, aren't i3 and ix separate currents ? Or ix= i3?

 

[tedbradly]

In the last mesh, aren't i3 and ix separate currents ? Or ix= i3?

They are different currents, but I_x can be written in terms of your mesh currents. Just sum the currents entering and exiting that node:

$$I_2 -I_3 - I_X = 0 \to I_X = I_2-I_3$$